Community Matters: Temple Fairs and Film in the Air

Well, it's that time of year again when things go boom, baijiu challenges abound, and dumplings are generously steamed up with care. Despite many places being closed during CNY, here are some community related events you can partake in so you can triumphantly ride into the year of the horse.  

One thing you must do to experience the magic of Chinese New Year is go to one of the many temple fairs happening in parks across the city. Previously, temple fairs were an old method used to attract worshipers but have now become celebrations for the whole community. Filled with snacks, vendors selling crafts, and traditional Chinese fare, temple fairs are an essential attraction during the New Year holiday. 

China Culture Center has organized a group tour of a very special temple fair on Jan 31. The tour will begin with a quick history of these community gatherings, and is followed by lunch, then off to the Grand View Garden. This particular fair will be modeled after scenes depicted in the famous novel "Dream of the Red Chamber." One of China's four great classical novels, it was written in the middle of the 18th century. Check it out and experience the pageantry and antiquity of China. The tour will cost RMB 250, and more info can be found here.

For the entire week of Jan 31 until Feb 6, there will be a selection of films and talks from directors and journalists at the Crossroads Center. Talks will take place at 3pm every day and the films will screen at 7pm, and complimentary refreshments will be served to complement your viewing pleasure. Each screening will be followed by Q&As with the directors. Entrance is RMB 40, or RMB 30 for students. Make sure to RSVP so they know you will be attending. Check out our event listing for more info.

More happenings in your community:

• Templo Do Samba Percussion Workshop
• Seminar on New Media
• Screen Printing Workshop at Atelier

Photo: www.china-tour.cn